Public perception on freedom of information: the level of readiness in implementing the freedom of information in Malaysia / Jasmine Ahmad and Azni Mohd Dian

Governments, organizations and individuals are all responsible to make decisions. Sound decision requires accurate and dependable information. As a democratic country it is important to promote open and transparent government. These are fundamentals in controlling corruption, promoting good governance and public accountability. Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights defines the right to access information held by government bodies to seek, receive and impart information. Freedom of information is a right given to the public to demand information from the government bodies to local authorities concerning the public interest. Freedom of information has been seen as capable of advancing a number of desirable objectives in any society. This right is a fundamental human right and a key tool in controlling corruption, promoting the concept of open and transparent government and central to democratic accountability. It has been described as the "oxygen of democracy" that is necessary for a free two-way flow of information. This can develop and assist citizen trust in government actions and maintaining a civil and democratic society. Healthy policy development and quality decision making will also be generated. Besides that, by facilitating the acquisition of knowledge and information, it encourages self-fulfillment and promotes informed society. The development in Malaysia shows more and more concerned groups and individuals are calling for the freedom of information. The Centre of Independent Journalism Malaysia reports that fifty-nine civil society groups are calling the Selangor State of Government to set up task force to review existing practices and the draft law for the state level (http://www.ciimalaysia.org/content/view, retrieved on the 2/26/2009). This study investigates on the level of awareness among the citizen and government officials on freedom of information.